Southern DawnvsUltra
Southern Dawn (dual purpose) and Ultra (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Dawn
Alpha acid
11.2–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.9%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Ultra
Alpha acid
3–9.7%
Beta acid
3.6–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Dawn
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Ultra
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Southern Dawn
QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryCitrusFruityHerbalSpicy
Only in Ultra
MildPleasantFloral
Property
| Property | Southern Dawn | Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11.2–13.5% | 3–9.7% |
| Beta acid | 4.3–5.9% | 3.6–5% |
| Co-humulone | 31–33% | 25–35% |
| Total oil | - | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 22–45% | 50–60% |
| Humulene | 17–25% | 10–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 6–9% |
| Farnesene | 4–10% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
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